The City of Melbourne recognises that some people are faced with a dilemma if asked for money by people who beg. The reasons for begging are complex.

Begging is illegal under the Summary Offences Act and enforcement is the responsibility of the police.

The recent mayor election seems to have ramped up the enforcement against the crime of begging recently in Melbourne. With fines being applied to those who beg in the streets (according to one of them, it is about ~$230 per offence)

While I imagine there is some who are professional beggars, this could potentially run the risk of placing a criminal conviction to those who genuinely needs help. My concern would be the difficulties of getting a job after getting a conviction or jail-time for the crime of begging. Plus the economic cost of jailing such offenders.

Media

The criminal offence of begging should be abolished. Criminalising begging is tantamount to criminalising poverty. It perpetuates, rather than alleviates, the marginalisation and disadvantage experienced…

Other Parties stances on this

The Greens are committed to a fair and just society where the human rights of everyone are respected and social inclusion is a priority. Laws that criminalise begging are contrary to fundamental human rights. The offence of 'begging or gathering...